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What is Religion?
Why we need Religion?
SERMONS ON Why there are so many religions in the world?
Can we see God face to face?
MOUNT Where is God?
Does assumes Human Form?
AND Is God of Islam, Christians, Jews, Hindus and
countless sectarian religions, One or Different?
MAHTMA GANDHI If God is one, than why people fight in the name
of God and religion?
When all religions teach noble values like truth,
Booklet of Comparative Religions. forgiveness, non-violence, equality of all people and
celibacy, than why women and children of different ethnic
(For Growing Youth of all World religions).
groups and nationality are raped, punished, killed and
tortured in name of God and religious beliefs?
Why there are so many Gods and Goddesses in
Hinduism? The correct name of the ancient 5000 years
old Heritage of India is Sanatan Dharm meaning Eternal
Moral religion.
Scientific answers of above questions need perfect
understanding in present times of religious terrorism.
One God of Universe and True Humanitarian religion
are logically given in India’s most popular Scripture- The
Gita - written in such a way, as if Supreme God, King of all
Kings in Universe is Speaking by using the first person
singular “Pronoun I”, which every living human being is
using for him or herself.
Lord of Universe- “Bhagvan” in the Gita promises:-
Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya, Glanir Bhavati Bharat,
Abhyuthamadharmasys,Tadaatmanam Srujamyaham
Paritranaya Sadhunam,Vinashaya Cha Dushkrutm
Dharma Sansthapanarthaya, SambhavaaMe Yuge Yuge
(Gita Ch. IV-V- 7 & 8).
By Swani Dwiroopanand “When Religion (moral values) degrades and un-
religious activities become rampant, I create divine souls
(Dr. H. K. Gandhi in Past life)
(Atmas) to help the noble and destroy the evil doers. I
(Me) myself take human forms at intervals of centuries to
re-establish forgotten truths and moral values of Dharma”.
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This answers the Hindu belief of God sending his is the only true way of solving all disputes, personal in
enlightened souls or HIM-self assuming human forms to revise family, Society, Village or Cities, or state and international
religious beliefs. levels”.
This verse says that Revision (RENAISSANCE) of Views of Mahatma Gandhi about Jesus are worth
religions (Dharm-Sansthapan) is necessary at intervals of noting.
passage of some centuries. God assumes human form when “The New Testaments gave me comfort and
moral values fall and immorality becomes rampant. boundless joy, as it came after the repulsion those parts of
Truth and nonviolence are preached in all world the Old had given me. Today, supposing I was deprived of
religions. the Gita and forget all its contents but had a copy of the
Most People in the world today know Mahatma Gandhi as Sermons on Mount, I should derive the same joy from it as
I do from the Gita”. (Young India, 22-12-1927.p.426).
a political freedom fighter. But his religious and spiritual side is
“Jesus expressed , as no other could, the spirit and
less known. I believe that all Indians can take pride for such a will of God. It is in this sense that I see Him and recognize
noble divine soul of India, particularly the Gujaraties - for Him as the Son of God. And because the life of Jesus has
Gandhiji was a son of Gujarat. the significance and the transcendence to which I have
Mahatma Gandhi was an incarnation (Avatara, Vibhooti) alluded. I believe that Jesus belongs not solely to
of God, equivalent to Jesus Christ and Lord Buddha. Christianity, but to the entire world, to all races and
people - it matters little under what flag, name or doctrine
Lord Mountbatten had said these words to the film they may work, profess a faith, or worship a God inherited
producer Attenborough - producer of award winning film, from their ancestors”. (The Modern Review, October
GANDHI - in an interview. 1941, p.406).
“Remember that you are making a movie of a “My approach to other religions, therefore, is never as
personality of the caliber of Jesus Christ and Lord a fault-finding critic but as a devotee hoping to find the like
beauties in other religions and wishing to incorporate in
Buddha.” my own the good I may find in them and miss in mine.
This movie “Gandhi” of Richard Attenborough has {Harijan, 12-8-1933).
played very important role in bringing to light the life of
Mahatma Gandhi. It had won eight academy awards in Views of Gandhiji from a book
1988. "My Religion by M. K. Gandhi”.
I firmly believe that Mahatma Gandhiji and Jesus Christ,
and all great founders of Today’s major world religions like
Islam, Hebrew, Buddhism, Tao, etc,. Were such a divine souls
called Vibhooties in the Gita. Mahatma Gandhi is the most
recent personality.
Gandhiji has shown the world, a unique path of
‘Nonviolent Fight’ of gaining freedom (Mukti, Moksha) from
selfish and Ego griped political rulers.
Gandhiji has described God in very few words. “God is
truth and truth is God. Non-violence preached in all religions,
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Mahatma Gandhi about Religions. JESUS & MAHATMA GANDHI
" I hold that it is the duty of every cultured man or woman ARE IMMORTAL SOULS.
to read sympathetically the scriptures of the world. If we are to (Based on a Famous Upanishad Hymn
respect others' religions as we would have them to respect our Mrutor mam Amrutam Gamaya)
own, a friendly study of world's religions is a sacred duty of all. Lead me to Immortality by my death.
My respectful study of other religions has not abated my
reverence for or my own faith in the Hindu scriptures. They Someone is Coming and someone is Going,
have indeed left their deep mark upon my understanding of the Someone is Awaking and someone is Sleeping,
Hindu Scriptures. They have broadened my view of life. They Someone is Sitting and someone is Running,
have enabled me to understand more clearly many obscure Someone is Leading and someone is Following,
passages in Hindu scriptures. I respect all religions". (Young Someone is Wedding and someone is Separating,
Someone is Laughing and someone is Crying,
India - 2-9-1926):
Someone is Barking and someone is Singing,
By religion I do not mean a formal religion or customary Someone is Jumping and someone is Stumbling.
religion, but that religion which underlies all religions, which Millions are Blue and Millions are Red,
bring us face to face with our maker or GOD. Only a few are Green but Millions are Pale,
Every activity of a man of religion must be derived from Only a few are Strong but Millions are Weak,
his religion because religion means bound to GOD, that is to Millions are Bitter, but only a few are Sweet!.
say God rules your every breath. I search Thee Oh Lord, and the Mystery of JOY,
Religion should pervade our every action. It does not My Death is near, Shall I SEE THEE Oh GOD?
THY LIGHT if seen, and (my) ignorance if gone,
mean sectarianism (Sampradaya). It believes in ordered moral
Then Fear of Death is gone, and courage is born.
government of universe (Kingdom of God or Rama Rajya). It is Millions don’t know what things they Need,
not less real because it is unseen. This religion transients Only Wise really know, what one should Seek.
Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, etc., etc.. It does not supersede No human can give, all things you (people) want,
them. It harmonizes them and gives them reality. Only a few are conscious of the Gifts they've got.
No man can live without religion. There are some who Why people are morose and think of Dying?
in Egotism of their reason, declare that they have nothing to do They know not the Limits, where Eagles are Flying.
with religion or God. But it is like a man saying that he breaths Why few are Blissful and millions so Sad?
but has no nose. Whether by reason, or by instinct, or by They know not in fact - The Beginning or The End.
superstition a man acknowledges some sort of relationship I dream of that day when all are in Cheers,
No Worries, no Hunger, no Guns, no Fears.
with the Divine.
No one is Crying and the youth is Dancing,
The rankest agnostic or atheist does acknowledge the And all are singing Divine songs for Living.
need of a moral principle and associates some thing good with Who Gives with Faith and holy Vows,
its observance and some thing bad with its non-observance. With Love Divine, no Hate for Foes.
Religion which takes no account of practical affairs of When Forgiveness of Jesus pervades all souls,
daily life and does not help to solve them is no religion. A girl can sing, She has divine goals.
Religion is the permanent element in human nature which From Hell who came, and to Heaven who went,
counts no cost too great in order to find its full expression, and Every born has to Die, the Gita has said,
Only Prophets like Jesus and men like Gandhi,
which leaves the soul utterly restless until it has found itself, True Scientists and Seers (of God) are IMMORTAL SOULS.
known THE MAKER, and appreciated the true
correspondence between THE MAKER AND ITSELF.
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Mrutor mam Amrutam Gamaya, is a famous mantra and IS GOD A FACT OR A FICTION, TRUTH OR MYTH?
prayer to God from Brahad-Aranyak Upanishad. Is God a fiction or fact, a myth or truth?
In full verse one prays to Lord, Lead me from untruth to Are these beliefs of people of blind faith of illiterate,
Truth, Lead me from darkness (ignorance) to Light uneducated and ignorant masses true or false?
(Knowledge) and Lead me to immortality from (by) my death”. Is there something like a maker of this wonderful and
The spiritually evolved soul asks God to give him/her perfect universe?
the death of a martyr, which will make him/her immortal. When such questions arise in mind of any reasoning
People want to go to heaven after death, but they individual of great achievements in material world (a
do not want to die for going to heaven ! Siddha), a true seeker of God is born. Then such a person
“Every born has to die”, is Eternal law of God. The starts real search of God in the true sense. Most people
above poem shows a path for living with noble goals and dying do not care for God or religion. They simply believe in
like a martyr in religious field. One should not be afraid of rituals and traditions. Others are not interested in God or
dying for any good and noble cause. Such a death leads to religion. They simply believe in idols as God.
immortality. People remember such souls for centuries. All scriptures of major world religions proclaim that
Jesus and Gandhiji died as martyrs having firm ‘God is One’, But no scripture has a method by which one
faith in God and God’s work. can SEE God and get 100% conviction about God.
The laws of mother-nature or Maker of the Universe Why there are so many Gods and Goddesses in
(GOD) work in an equal manner upon all human beings, Hinduism? Is God of Muslims, Jews, Christians and
animals, plants, stars, suns, moons and all Galaxies. Hindus different or one?
Everything- perceptible with five senses is in a non-stop A man of reason and science wants proof of God,
motion or TIME-SPACE continuum. The possession of money, direct or indirect. The theory of Karmas preached in the
property, political power and desires to get more Greed (Lobh) Gita provides a proof. The Laws of Mother Nature govern
and family attachments create ‘False Egos and Illusions’ in all individuals in an equal manner. Happiness and sorrows
minds (Ahamkara and Moha). These lead to commit great come to a person according to right and wrong Karma
religious and political wars by persons in high religious or done by him/her or even not done by him (Akramas) at
political positions. proper time. (Theory of Karma, Akarma, and Vikarma).
It is time that people of reason and spiritual quest
should study all world religions as Gandhiji has
recommended. The Upanishads, Patanjali Yoga
(ASHTANG YOGA) and the Gita provide a time tested
path of SEEING the formless God (Formless - Nirakara
but not quality-less -Nirguna God). This science is called
Bhram-Vidya or Self Realization (Adhiatma-Vidya).
Anybody can see God face to face by devoted study
of Gita and search of God with genuine inquisitiveness of
a scientist. You can SEE HIM. The search starts with
study of SELF (ATMA). It ends in Self (Atma). Yoga and
the Gita teach that divinity dwells within your HEART. God
cannot be seen with physical eyes or other senses. But
omnipresence of God can be felt by the awakened or
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conscious MIND, when all egocentric desires (Vasana) and practiced Yoga. But I had started writing notes of my
false beliefs regarding God, come to an end, then love scattered thoughts on religious subjects after Oct., 1979. I
compassion and an attitude of equality for all humans recorded this event and experience the next morning in
develops. This is spiritual evolution. my note book.
I SEE THE HOLY CROSS OF JESUS IN 1979. Devoted Christians believe that the resurrected
“It was a cold winter night. I was fast asleep on the second HOLY SPIRIT OF JESUS CHRIST is pervading
floor of my clinic at Naroda, a suburb of Ahmedabad, India. I everywhere. Later I read Swami Vivekanand had
woke up perspiring like a moist sponge. My clothes were experienced same spirit of Jesus Christ during his
soaked with sweat. Body hairs were raised in surprise. I wiped meditation practices under the guidance of his Guru
my face and eyes. I saw a shining ball of dazzling light outside Swami Ram Krishna Parmhans.
the window. The brightness of light was greater than But why I was chosen in India by Almighty God to SEE
thousands of suns in the sky. From the east window a ball of (Darshana) this light of HOLY CROSS exactly at a
light entered the room. It pervaded in all objects like tables, particular time of the Christian calendar? This is still a
chairs, books etc. and entered my body. For a few seconds I question for me and I have no answer. This is this called
experienced that I was weightless and floating in a soft cloud 'Shakshatkara' or DIVINE EXPERIENCE OF GOD as the
of light. My total existence and all things in the room were in Hindu scriptures describe.
tune and oneness with this light. I realized that everything was Today I understand its little meaning. God had chosen
made of that light. There was no sun in the sky at midnight. I me to become His instrument in finding parallels in
realized it was something else. Eastern and Western religious thoughts.
I saw at my wristwatch. The TIME was 12.00 During last twelve years I wrote and published a few
MIDNIGHT, the zero hour between Christ’s year 1979 and books on Gita, Vedanta and Indian philosophy. An atheist
80. It was DEC 31,79. I still remember that I saw a SHINING doctor practicing in a remote village of India could not
CROSS along with that bright light in the background”. have written these books.
I used to get inspiring thoughts when I started writing
Only at a later date I understood that it was the ‘Cosmic on such subjects. I have always witnessed mercy and
Light’ of God and the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ. I did not help of God in all events, which have occurred in my life
understand any significance of that event at that time. Even after 1979.
today after twelve years I do not know its meaning. But I am I am more than convinced that GOD is one,
sure about this. Whatever I experienced and saw on that night Omnipresent and Almighty. He was, is and will ever
was not a dream or imagination. I am very positive about this. be with me during all events that will happen in my
It was a real experience in the fullest conscious state of my future life also.
mind. Three months prior to that date, I had started the study After this experience I lost interest in my well
of Bhagavat Gita, a divine song of the Lord of Universe. established medical practice of 30 years. I withdrew from
After attending a week’s discourse on ‘Karma Yoga’ (Ch-3 practice and social commitments. By the end of 1982 I
of Gita, The Yoga of correct action) by Swami Chinmayanandji closed my clinic and immigrated to USA I was a crazy
in Ahmedabad during October-1979, I got interested in the reader from the childhood. Now I turned to subjects like
study of Gita for the first time in my life. I had no background of world history, history of religions, history of science, life
Christianity, nor I had any great attachments to Hinduism, stories of scientists and philosophers etc. I never read
religion or even God. I never believed in myths or rituals. My these subjects before.
knowledge of Hinduism was hear-say, I did not meditate, nor In 1981 I came across a book, THE TAO OF
PHYSICS by Fritj of Capra, Prof. of high-energy physics at
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Berkley University, California. Mr. Capra also describes his In Capra’s book there are many quotations from the
similar experience of SEEING the cosmic light and the figure Gita and Upanishads Prof. Capra has nicely presented
of Lord Shiva (Nataraj), a deity God worshipped by Hindus. He parallels in science and religions. He has explained the
saw SHIVA in the open sky during daytime. This inspired him bondage of “Time-Space” and the interplay of the
to write his book. This book discusses nicely the eastern opposites. Gita and Upanishads describe these as duality
religions, science, and philosophies. With the help of the (Dwandvas) of mind.
famous equation of Albert Einstein, E=MC2,132 Prof. Capra Hindus strongly believes in a cycle of previous births,
beautifully co-relates science and the verses of the Gita and deaths and rebirths of soul (Atma). You are born at a
Upanishads, Space and Time. In the preface of his book Mr. particular place and time according to desires and actions
Capra writes :- (Vasanas and Sanchit Karma) of previous lives. It is
“I saw cascades of energy coming from the outer difficult to explain such mystic or illogical religious beliefs
space, in which particles were created and destroyed in to men of intellect and reason.
rhythmic pulses; I ‘saw’ the atoms of these elements and Sometimes I ask myself. Was I an American or a
those of my body, participating in this cosmic dance of Christian in my previous life, who was inspired by Swami
energy ; I felt its rhythm and I ‘heard’ its sound and at that Vivekanand who came to USA in 1892. He gave many
moment I KNEW that this was the Dance of Shiva, The spiritual talks in America and Europe. Is possible that a
lord of dancers worshipped by the Hindus” desire to get birth in India would have remained in my
mind at the time of my death when I died as an American?
I record one more experience of a young student of North
Is this possible? If this is not logical, than the beliefs of
Florida University. In April (1995), I was invited to give a talk
previous births are misguiding and one should not waste
on Hinduism to the students of comparative religions class in
time to prove or disprove such notions and beliefs. It is
NFU (FL). They were mostly Christian students. When I
easy to understand that Karma done in this life operate in
described my above experience of SEEING the Holy Cross
this very life generally speaking. This is possible to prove
in 1979, and then after my life's turn towards the study of
to a fair extent.
world religions, all students were spell bound. At end of talk
The Holy Spirit in me and all living creations is one
after the question answer session, we were dispersing.
and same. This spirit was present in bodies of all great
A young girl approached and placed the following note in souls of the past who inspired people in different lands. In
my hand. She had never studied religious scriptures in depth. this sense I can say that I have lived many previous lives.
But her experience of "Seeing Divine Light" is worth I was Veda Vyasa the writer of Mahabharata and Gita
reading. about 2500 years ago. I was Shankaracharrya in 7th
She wrote. "Thank you for your wonderful seminar. century and Arya Bhatta in 4th century AD I had lived as
Almost 2 years ago, I had similar experience, though many scientists who gave knowledge in different countries
there was no one religion which struck me, rather what of the world. In same sense and manner I can say that I
(after studying) is most similar to BRAHMAN reaching was Jesus, Moses, Buddha, Ram and Krishna many
ATMAN. As you say seeming crazy; for this reason I have centuries ago! By reading thoughts of all these great
stopped trying to tell people. But this seed was planted and personalities any one can get tuned to their noble minds,
I too came to the same conclusion that all religions should be feelings, intellect and devotion to God.
respected and merged in a way that the world community can In a verse of Gita, Lord Krishna says:-
love one another. Any how if you have any type of mailings Bahuni me vyatitani janmani tava ch Arjuna ;
please include me. - "Amenda Mehrtens." Tan Aham vettha sarvani natvam vettha Paramtpaha.
* * * * Gita Ch IV-5.
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“I have lived many lives in past and I know them all. But like Jesus and messengers like Mohammad to uplift
Oh, man of great penances (Paramtapa), you do not morals of the poor and help them and also to punish the
remember any past life, although you have also lived many evil doers and sinners.
lives in past”. All Divine souls and prophets of world’s religions at
Only a seeker like Arjuna can see a glimpse of God. A different places were the human forms or incarnations
scientist like Mr., Capra can hear ‘HIS’ sound, and get divine (Avatars or Vibhooties) of God according to this verse.
inspirations. This is a purely subjective self experience, which Their life stories and message is same.
occurs at individual level only. ‘Only one successful soul, one Mohammed raised his voice and fought against idol
in a million knows Me (God) perfectly‘. (Gita. VII-4). worship of many different Gods by Arabs tribes. Christ
A scientist, an artist, a lover of truth and non-violence is fought against the priests and the political rulers of Rome.
very near to God compared to rich people giving big donations But he was crucified by his own Jewish priests.
or narrow minded priests of secular religions. God's search and path needs fearlessness (Abhaya)
A verse of Shiva prayer describes invisible Shiva, - the of a martyr. Only after passage of some centuries people
God of Cosmic Energy in Universe and God of Universal Time, understand the message of love and equality of humans,
- as follows :- preached by all past prophets. Then people start
“Asit giri samam syat, kajjalam sindhu patre, worshipping such martyrs as Gods in human forms.
Sur taruvara shakha, lakhini patra bhurvihi, Buddha, Jesus, Mohammed and Mahatma Gandhi belong
Likhati yadi grahitva sharada sarva kalam, to this rare class of super-human souls.
Tadpi tava gunanam param isham ne yati”. Lord Mountbatten in a interview said these words to
Shiva Mahimna Strotrum - (V-32) Attenborough, the producer of the movie 'Gandhi,' “Mr.
“The description of Lord always remains incomplete, even Attenborough you are making a movie of a man of caliber
if Goddess SHARDA (Goddess of music, speech and of Jesus Christ and Buddha. Please see that you do not
knowledge) turns oceans into ink, land into paper, trees into a do any injustice to this great soul (Mahatma).”
pen and describes the qualities, kindness and mercy of God till After my twelve years of study of the Gita I firmly
the end of time” (Dooms day ). believe and say that Mahatma Gandhi was an incarnation
God is beyond words and beyond OM. But to gain of God (Vibhooti). Lovers of Gandhi should come forward,
knowledge of religion is within range of OM, or symbol of any unite and start a new world community (Religious Union -
spoken language. Morality (Dharma-religion) could be taught Sangh).
and explained by words. Religion is like a map, which My idea of International Gandhi Gita-Dharma Sangh
indicates the goals in life and shows directions and ways of (IGDS) is based on this theme. Men and women of any
achieving those goals. Achievements of life goals bring joy and sect, country or religion can join this movement without
happiness. renouncing their old religious beliefs, or practices of
Speech or spoken language Vani) roots from OM. If there worship.
is One God, then there should be only one religion, Open With modern tools of communication like press,
minded and able people must try to find common factors in all transport and TVs., Computers and internet, IGDS can
religions and try to establish a new Global Religion. This propagate Gandhiji’s thoughts on subjects like education,
religion will provide correct guidelines to all priests and political ideal political system, sociology, economics, sex,
leaders also. marriage, diet, health, religion and God. These are worth
Lord in the Gita (Ch, IV-7 & 8) declares that He sends studying by people of all countries. He has left for us great
divine messengers in every era (Yuga), Whenever ethical literature which will help everyone and bring real world
values decline, God assumes human forms or sends his Sons peace in the 21st century.
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Mahatma Gandhi was a fighter of political freedom, but he THE UNIQUE HEBREW PEOPLE.
fought with a gun of non-violence and bullets of love. He
believed in democracy, yet he said, “Only I am the only true Five day war took place in the middle east on June
communist in this world”. He was a lawyer, but an advocate of 5th, 1967. It shocked the world. It was over on the sixth day.
poor and the untouchables. He preached village autonomy as It was between 12 powerful Arab kingdoms on one side and
an ideal system for any government. one tiny Israel on the other side!. There were eleven
He strongly believed that the borders of any country must hundred million (Crores) Arabs, who had prepared for a war
be decided on the basis of spoken languages of the people. to crush this new country, born in 1948, having a population
His thoughts on ‘Swadeshi’ are based on sound economic which equal half the city of Bombay. But the Israelis in three
principles. Spirit of Swadeshi teaches “Use the products made days demolished completely the powerful Air-force of Egypt
in your own country." and captured great areas of surrounding lands of Arabs.
He was a selfless saint who has showed to all a path of The war was over. Who are these people!
truth, non-cooperation, non-violence and how to struggle for Palestine liberation organization (P.L.O) had
true human rights. We must not have any hatred towards terrorized world air lines by hijacking many planes. On June
enemies in our minds. 1976 a group of 104 fellow men were captured as hostages
Mahatma Gandhi was a true Karma-Yogi. on the air port of Antoby, in Uganda Africa, nearly 2500
Rabindranath Tagore, the winner of the peace Nobel Prize miles away from their land. They did an unimaginable
(1912) writes:- adventure and liberated all their fellow brothers with the
“Go ahead, Go ahead , even if Nobody listens thy voice, fastest counter action lasting for only 52 minutes. Who are
God ahead, Oh man. these people!
If nobody joins, keep on Going all alone, all alone, but go For nearly 2000 years, these people have lived
ahead, Oh man, without a country of their own and a national flag. They have
If your path is true and love is your weapon, you shall wandered in more than 40 different countries as a hated
reach your goal, Go ahead, Oh man, and ill-treated community. Yet they did not get extinguished
Go ahead, Go ahead, Go ahead, all alone, Oh man go as the people nor they changed their religious beliefs. Who
ahead,“. are these people!
Sir Sarvapalli Radha-Krishnan, ex-president and a There are no great rivers nor there is regular rain fall
renowned scholar of Hindu scriptures says, “If thoughts of in their land. There are no underground wells of sweet
Gandhi are broadcasted in all world languages daily for fifteen drinking water. Yet within a period of only 20 years these
minutes, It will bring true world peace “ people have converted a desert into a beautiful garden of
My sincere Namaskar and salutations to all true Gurus, roses, oranges and grapes. Who are these people!
Noble Saints and Prophets of all religions. These are the unique Hebrew people. They are
Hari Om Tat Sat. (God is absolute truth) people of today’s Israel and all over world.
Om Shantihi, Om Shantihi. Om Shantihi Their Jewish religion is one of the oldest mono
Let peace prevail Let peace prevail theistic religions in the west, and perhaps the world. A
Let peace prevail. student who wishes to study comparative world religions
must study the history of ups and downs of the Hebrew
people. The student should also study and understand the
meaning of words like religion, culture, heritage, tradition,
morality, ethics, civilization, religious and political empires,
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sociology, economic principles and prosperity etc, etc. But above The history of Hebrews provides an interesting story
all he must understand the meaning of the world PEOPLE. The of how religion, culture, education, family ties, and faith in
Hebrews are a unique POPLE. words of prophets and God can unite and preserve good
In order to understand the above words, the story of traditions, and how such values lead to suffering for some
Hebrew People (the Jews) is fascinating and interesting. Their time. But the same moral and ethical principles and faith
story is very well documented in scholarly volumes in all libraries (True religion) brings in the end real prosperity and
of the world. In this small chapter of comparison of religions we happiness for its followers.
will study only a few important words and mention a few historic
events. All religions believe that God is One.
The word for 'civilization' in Indian language is 'Sanskruti'. The basic natural instinct or desire of every living
The ancient language of the Aryans is called Sanskrit, meaning being is to be happy and live long. In former times few
the language of civilized people. Religion in former days meant intelligent people studied the effects of natural elements on
observance of tribal traditions and unwritten social laws. life. They thought well and suggested ways how people can
Prosperity was counted in terms of cattle and sheep and become happy.
ownership of land by a tribe over a particular land area. The They observed that the basic needs of all beings
early days of evolving human religions, civilized and uncivilized were air, water and food. When these were satisfied people
people were fighting for ownership of rivers and fertile land. were happy. Then in later times, their attention was drawn
In ancient Hindu scriptures the civilized people were to different diseases which made people unhappy. Almost
called Devas (deities) and uncivilized people Asuras or Demons. every born died due to some disease or fatal injuries.
Fights between these two classes of people were going on since Knowledge of seasons and rainfall developed and people
pre-historic times. They are not yet over after four thousand learned to live together in co-operation and harmony, with
years of evolution of countless world religions, publications of exchange of knowledge and material wealth. Jungle-man
many holy scriptures, and mankind witnessing the highest and cave-man learnt cultivation of land, art of agriculture,
progress of science in the 20th century after fructification of herbal medicine, cattle and sheep raising and started to
Jesus Christ. Man has placed his footsteps on the moon, and build houses and live in planes and become more civilized.
replaced heart of one person into chest of another man. But the (See the chart of Evolution of World Religions
real transplantation of hearts has not occurred in the last decade in End).
of this 20th Century. Let us hope this real spiritual evolution
occurs in the 21st century. There are three major religions in West. Judaism
The word Dharma (religion) of Sanskrit language or the Hebrew religion had started about 2000 years
indicates moral, social and obligatory duties. The codes of social before the birth of Christ. Christianity is linked with birth of
behaviors and customs were called religious guidelines Jesus Christ. Islam has started in the 7th century A.D..
(Commandments). Communities of people staying in limited These dates of origin or start should be remembered by
geographic areas and following such codes were 'the religious the students. Christ was born about 1990 years ago.
people' of ancient times. A person or a family, not agreeing with People link calendars with birth dates of great prophets,
such codes was driven out from that area or punished by the pioneers of religions or great kings. Today, the people of
ruling heads. In this manner political, economic and social laws these three religions follow their own calendars. But the
were taking shape. Wise and learned men would move to calendar of Jesus Christ is followed by the entire world. In
different areas in search of better living conditions. We see this former days there were no well organized religions. The
trend even today. Many individuals and families immigrate to rich general pattern of religion was of social customs of
and free countries, like America today. marriages, food habits and hygiene, methods of disposal
9
of dead and tribal family traditions. Even today we see the the sides of river Jordon were the trading land-routes
same pattern in all parts of world and prophet started secular between Europe, Egypt and Arab countries in those days.
religions. Nearly all ancient religions have a common
A curious student of world religions should understand character of tribal discipline and local sociology. 2000
the difference between Christianity and the Hebrew religion, years prior to the birth of Jesus, the present Hebrew
and the New Testaments and Old Testaments. I suggest him traditions were started by a man called Abraham. He was
to study only one particular section of the Holy Bible, known as a wise businessman who had moved to the city of
'Sermons on the Mount'. Compare the preaching of Jesus with Jerusalem with his family members from a near by small
the preaching of earlier Hebrew prophets. Then try to compare village called Ura (presently in Iraq). He was a man of
them with similar doctrines of other religions. In this way an high morals and honesty. He had realized the importance
unbiased student of comparative religions will understand the and need of family unity and love, and friendship among
noble and deeper messages of all world religions. nearby neighbors. He thought these noble values to his
In order to understand the difference between Judaism children and grand children. To remain united with family
and Christianity, we shall first study the geography of the land ties by marriages within known circles, chaste sex
known as Israel today. Then we will try to learn the origin of relations, sharing joys and sorrows, and helping the poor
Judaism and preaching of their earlier prophets like Abraham, members of nearby families was his simple advice. These
Moses and others. This background would help us to advices became codes of good conduct (Religion) for the
appreciate the message of 'sermons on mount' in a better great grand children of Abraham family and their following
perspective. generations till present times. Moses, a great prophet in
Jesus was born nearly 2000 years after the origin of lineage of Abrams, liberated his fellowmen from the
Hebrew religion. The land called Israel today was known as slavery of Egyptian kings and declared Ten
Palestine in those days. This holy land of all Hebrews, Commandments for all the people. They were revised
Christians and Arabs too was a small hilly and sandy area of short sentences of ancient preaching of Abram. These are
only 1100 sq. miles. It was a region of 140 miles north-south known today as Old testaments.
and 80 miles east-west. Its north end touched the present area The members of the family of Abrams were called
of Lebanon. The east limits merged with a desert leading to Judas, the residents of Judah district. Their traditions
Syria. In south there was the Sinai peninsula leading to Egypt. became Judaism or the Hebrew religion in course of
In the west there was the Mediterranean ocean. The river centuries. They evolved into an isolated but a strongly
Jordan ran from north to south in the middle of this land. This united and scholarly community compared to their other
river ends in a big lake known as the Dead Sea. Because of Semitic brothers - the uneducated and tribal Arab families,
inflow of water for years and no outlet, this river and sea have who were children of Abraham's two brothers. Hebrews,
become very salty. No fish can survive or vegetations can the children and grand children of Abraham, mostly
grow in this water. To imagine this area one can think of one resided in big towns and became a business community.
quarter area of the southern peninsula of Michigan, extending They had good knowledge of mathematics, medicine and
from Toledo to Port Huron. astrology. They tried to remain an isolated, non-political
There were five districts in this area. Two districts on business community faithful to the rulers of the land. But
the east side of river were called Decapolis (district of ten in those days rulers changed often. Their isolation from
towns) and Pieria. Three districts on the west side of the river other people and politics of the land turned them into a
were called Galilee, Samaria and Judah. The city of Jerusalem hated community by the following rulers. They were
was in the south west district of Judah. This strip of land and looked upon as unfaithful citizens because they were
faithful to the former rulers.
10
History records only a few centuries of peace and mines, nor any great rivers or fertile land in this region.
prosperity for these Hebrews. History of Hebrews is full of long There are some missing gaps in all these three religions,
periods of sufferings, mass massacres (as seen in Germany which could be filled with acceptance of some eternal
recently), destruction of their temples and properties and truths and spiritual philosophies of eastern preaching.
slavery. Religion in those days meant strict observance of Before 2000 years, in period prior to birth of Jesus
tribal traditions, discipline and obedience to elderly and grand- Christ, the Hebrews were enslaved and ruled by Romans.
fathers. The fighting barbarian tribes off and on destroyed their Romans had appointed Harold as governor (Sultan) for
settlements, robbed away sheep, and destroyed the property collecting state taxes. At the time of birth of Jesus, Harold-
of this God fearing Hebrews staying in the ancient land known II, the son of first Harold was local ruler. He had married a
as Palestine. Hebrew girl. Due to this arrangement there was some
Hebrews had developed alphabets and a system of harmony between the king and Hebrew community. The
writing and keeping good records. They have well preserved religious freedom of Hebrews was preserved. The social
records of births of their families since 4000 years like our laws for Hebrew community were made by a central
modern birth registers. In the first chapter of Genesis in Bible council of 71 priests, who were representatives from
one finds a long lineage and dynasty from Abraham to Jesus. different towns of that area. This council had powers to
After some centuries the Hebrews learned that change of a decide punishments for sinning and anti-religious
ruling king meant loss of independence and wealth. They Hebrews.
thought of establishing a kingdom of their own. Peace loving Herod was a tyrant king. To please his Hebrew
business minded community learned that use of weapons was wife he had executed a reformist Hebrew saint, John the
necessary to preserve wealth and independence, because Baptist. John had refused to obey the authority of the
'Might is Right' was the law in those times. It has not changed religious council of priests. This independent saint John
even today. had baptized young Jesus. The rich Hebrews and
Hebrews established a kingdom of their own. The orthodox Hebrew priests had accepted slavery of Herod
temple of Jerusalem was built during the rule of a Hebrew King and the Romans. They had no vision or courage to fight or
David. Hebrews were at the peak of their prosperity in the look at the sufferings of many poor Hebrew families.
times of king David and his son Solomon. Jerusalem became Orthodox Hebrew priests, known as Pharisees and
a place of attraction and pilgrimage for the entire Hebrew business minded rich Hebrews had joined hands with king
community living in nearby and adjoining areas. In the course Herod. The average God fearing and law abiding Hebrews
of centuries this holy temple has been destroyed and rebuilt were silent. Mysticism and astrological beliefs were
several times. The land of Hebrews was conquered off and on rampant. About 2000 years ago, Jesus was born in this
by the mighty Egyptians, the empire minded Romans and land when such circumstances were prevailing.
other Semitic barbarian tribes of nearby regions. These A bright star was visible in dark sky. Many
scattered Arab tribes were later on united by Mohammad in predictions and legends are associated with the birth of
the 7th century A.D. when he founded a new religion Islam. Jesus. But the historic fact is that there was no shelter for
This short history of Hebrews indicates one important thing. delivery of Mary. Jesus was born on a bed of grass in a
Except for their religious beliefs the Arabs and the Hebrews stable of a poor potter in the company of sheep and
are the children of same Semitic forefathers. mules.
Since last 3500 years endless wars and blood baths The story of birth of Jesus gives us one important
are going on in this part of world in the name of God and message. It is not important in which family and where
religion and nationalism. This holy land has remained a battle you are born, but what you think, what you do, how you
ground for Arabs, Hebrews and Christians. There are no gold live, and what message you give to the people is
11
important. But above all how you die is an important thing in
life. SERMONS ON MOUNT. Part-1.
This is very well said by an important character 'Karna', In the previous chapter we learned few points about
in Mahabharat story. Many a times the Brahmin son the history of Hebrews and the birth of Jesus. In course of
Ashvasthama (son of a priestly teacher) and other Kshatriya some years Jesus found his twelve disciples, Andrew,
princes used to insult Karna by addressing him as son of a James, John, Philip, Nathanael, Jacob, Matthew, Thomas,
maid-servant, Soot-putra or Radhaye. He replies on one Mark, Luke and Judah. After baptizing them Jesus took
occasion like this:- them to a mountain. On the top of this mountain, Jesus
Sooto va soot-putro va, yova kova bhavami aham gave this most important speech. This particular lecture
Daivayattam kule janmah, madayattam tu became the heart of Christian faith in course of time. It is
paurusham. famous as "Sermons on the Mount".
"To get birth in a rich or a well known family might All world religions believe that there is one God, a
depend upon the wish of God. I may be a servant or a son of perfect maker of this wonderful Universe. Sometimes a
servant. But might, actions and efforts to uplift myself are in question arises in our minds.
my hands. 'Purushartha' is in my hands". Does God ever assume a human form? This
Joseph, the father of Jesus was a poor carpenter. He question is very well answered in the Bhagavat Gita.
had come to work in a village Bethlehem. Here he came to "Yada yada hi dharmasya, glanir bhavati Bharata,
know a local girl Mary. They wanted to be married. But Abhuthanam adharmasya tada atmanam srujami aham,
according to Hebrew customs their marriage could only be Paritranam sadhunam, vinashaya ch dush-krutam,
registered in Joseph's village Nazareth, a town in the northern Dharma samstapnarthaya sambhavami yuge yuge.
district of Galilee. Before this was done, Jesus was born. (V 7 & 8 CH. IV).
Because of this position regarding the marriage of Joseph and Lord says: "Whenever whenever, there is
Mary, Jesus is sometimes called "Son of a virgin mother". The degradation of religion (morality), I create divine souls to
childhood of Jesus is not well documented. In course of time destroy immorality and uplift the spiritual and moral values.
he was baptized by a revolutionary saint John the Baptist, In every era I create myself and assume a human form to
referred to earlier. protect the good people, to destroy the evil doers; and
In next chapters we will learn about 'Sermons on reestablish the true values of religion".
Mount'. Thus Hindu belief of God taking human forms
(incarnations) or 'Avatarvad' roots from the above verses of
the Gita. The Sanskrit word 'Dharma' is usually translated
as religion. But it means morality, duty consciousness and
spiritual awareness according to The Gita, most Hindu
scriptures and other Indian religions.
Hinduism is not a tribal tradition, a blind faith in God,
fixed scriptural doctrines or some secular organization.
Religion is linked with an individual (Atma) or self in The
Gita. It is called Swa-Dharma. To perform one's obligatory
duties is religion. Scriptural stories indicate such duties. The
duties indicated for priests and the rulers demands higher
sacrifices compared to those for average people.
12
I have great respect and faith in the words and message king having such broad vision (Rajarshi) becomes a political
of Jesus Christ. I believe in the noble message of sermons on head, kingdom of God comes to that land. This is the Hindu
the mount, though I do not agree with all chapters of the holy concept of 'Ram-Rajya' or kingdom of God on earth, which
Bible. Ten years before, on 31 Dec 1979 I had seen the Cosmic Jesus refers to many a times.
Light of Jesus and the Holy Cross in India. I believe that the holy A prophet is a man of simple living but noble and
spirit of Jesus is imperishable and an eternal force. After that day high thinking. He establishes contact with God at some
of experience, the 31st day of December has become a day of point in his life. Then he becomes a religious reformist. He
prayers for me. uplifts the spirits of ignorant people and liberates them from
I believe that God had created the divine soul of Jesus false religious beliefs and fear of death. He fights against
Christ for the aims and objects mentioned in above verses. He business minded priests and evil rulers who have enslaved
came as voice of God to re-establish the forgotten spiritual the people at gun point. Generally the message of a prophet
consciousness. The moral of the people was at its lowest level in is not grasped by the people of his land during his life. His
the land called Palestine in those times. own people are against him. He has to struggle against the
The true message of Christianity and Jesus is found in priests and the rulers to remove wrong beliefs propagated in
sermons on the mount. This chapter has inspired me most name of state and religion. Any person who makes contact
during last ten years of my religious studentship. Mahatma with supreme God, can become a liberated man (Jivan-
Gandhi, whom I consider a prophet of 20th century, writes in his Mukta). He dies the death of a religious martyr. He speaks a
autobiography that the 'Sermons on the Mount' from the holy language which is higher than that is written in scriptures,
bible had touched his heart most, when he was a student of law doctrines or man made political or social laws.
in England. Formless God (Nirakar Ishver) or idols of God
Most Hindus believe that there is only One God who is cannot speak. The message of God comes to human
formless. God is neither born nor God ever dies. Words of any beings via preaching of prophets and saints. All prophets
language can't describe the glory of God. But a true seeker of have preached love and equality of all humans. All holy
God can feel HIS presence everywhere. He or she can see HIM books also preach the same message. There is always
at some point in life's journey. Such seers become prophets in need for revision of doctrines with the passage of time. To
course of time. Thus according to Hinduism, all prophets or revise scriptures and comment upon the deeper meaning of
messiahs of world religions were divine souls or human verses, to abandon wrong rituals and suggest newer
incarnations of God (Vibhooties). traditions is not an anti-religious activity in Hinduism.
The message of formless and invisible God reaches Because of such attitudes, Hinduism today possesses a
people via words and sermons of such self-realized souls. All voluminous literature on religious, philosophical and spiritual
religious scriptures are recorded messages of such great souls. subjects.
True Hindus respect all prophets and all scriptures. Gandhiji has The above verses of The Gita were written 500
said this nicely. "All religions and all humans are equal. Any years prior to birth of Jesus. Similar predictions of God
person having such an attitude is very near to God". People call coming in human form, were written in the Hebrew bible
him a saint or a true devotee (Bhakta) of God. also. A savior of Hebrews would be born who would
A saint is at little lower level than a prophet. He preaches establish a kingdom of God (a rule of justice, peace and
the message of prophets and scriptures. He is a friend of the human rights for every body). He would liberate Hebrews
poor, the ignorant, the sick and suffering humanity. His heart is from the slavery of tyrant Roman kings. The life of Jesus
filled with compassion and love. His vision and mind is broad. He Christ proved such predictions but his message was not
is a man of high moral character, renunciation and forgiveness. grasped by his own people. Jesus was hated, torch red and
He thinks beyond national limits, family, time and space. When a
13
crucified by the same Hebrew people who were waiting for style appears like that of Adi Shankaraacharya (7th century
God's arrival and HIS divine birth. A.D.), commenting upon the meanings of Vedas and
The preaching of sermons on mount is specially meant Upanishads.
for those who accept priesthood as a way of life. They stress the But such comments were not tolerated by people
role of priests and saints in any society. We can call them as and priests in the land were Jesus lived. Jesus was crucified
"Brahamin Dharmas" or the duties of priests. The message is by his own people because they could not grasp his divine
similar to the advice given in The Gita's last 18 verses of 2nd message of universal love and forgiveness. Gandhiji was
chapter, and last 8 verses of the 12th chapter. When one killed by bullets of a fanatic Hindu while he was trying to
compares the text of the sermons on the mount and above bring Hindu-Mosleem unity. This is the fate of all religious
verses of The Gita written 5 centuries earlier, in a different land prophets and social reformers.
and different language, one is amazed at the similarity of Christianity became an organized religion in Rome
message and identical divine vision of all prophets of all after the fall of Roman Empire in 4th century A.D. when king
religions. Augustine accepted Christianity as a state religion, nearly
The average people run after money, which is after 5 centuries after fructification of Jesus. Then only his
understandable. But when the religious priests run after money, message was understood in the western countries.
deteriorate in character, become enslaved by devilish political Compare this with Buddhism and Jainism. These religions
rulers and do not live according to the higher values of life got established as off-shoots of Hindu traditions and the
indicated in the holy scriptures, the religion (Morality) falls in that right thoughts were welcomed by people during life time of
land. There is no difference between an average man and a Lord Buddha, and Lord Mahavira (6th century B.C.). India is
priest. At such times some average person gets divine mother land of spirituality, research of divinity and religious
inspirations. He comes foreword to lead the people. tolerance. Indian people generally welcome any religious
The oral speech of sermons on mount was recorded by thoughts. In chapter (II) we shall study 'Sermons on the
some disciples. These documents later became known as Mount'.
Gospels of Matthew, Gospels of Peter, and Gospels of John and
so on. The present Bible is a mixture of Hebrew heritage,
prophesy of Moses and scholarship of other Hebrew prophets
and their wisdom. But the heart of Bible lies in the chapter of
Sermons on Mount. Many a times a student of comparative
religions is lost regarding the true message of Jesus. He must
devote more time to this particular chapter.
Jesus declared himself as "Son of God, and Son of
man". How he reached this state of freedom (Nirvana) is not well
documented. He doesn't call him a prophet or a messiah. He
does not accept the authority of the religious council of 71 priests
or the word meaning of the laws of Moses. This is the correct
state of mind of a truly liberated soul and who has attained self-
realization.
This section of sermons on mount explains the difference
between the old preaching of Moses and their true
interpretations by Jesus. Jesus throws fresh light on the old
commandments and the wrong practices done by Hebrews. His
14
SERMONS ON THE MOUNT Part 2. behind. You walk with upright neck and forward chest filled
Only few selected Sermons are presented here from the with ego due to riches. When money (Laxmi) goes, you get
holy Bible's famous chapter of Sermons on mount. An attempt to a second kick from front. You walk like a bent down old man
compare them with similar preaching of Bhagavat Gita and walking with a stick. You're very unhappy and a depressed
thoughts of other Hindu saints of India is done. Jesus himself person. Money is necessary in life, but money should never
points the difference between commandments of Moses and his become the only and ultimate goal of life.
own views. Also compare this sermon with a famous verse of an
Addressing his twelve disciples Jesus says:- Islamic Saint Raheem. Raheem was a military general of
1. "Oh my dear saints, they are the children of God who famous king Akbar, a contemporary of Mira and Tulsidas.
live with peace of mind, who are poor, humble, honest and Akabar ruled in India during the 16th century A.D. Rahim
compassionate. Only such people are saved and liberated by was a great scholar of Hindu scriptures. He has written
My Lord. Only those, who observe self-control (sanyama) and many verses in Hindi which give great practical guidelines in
discipline are eligible to enter the kingdom of God". Swami few short sentences:-
Vivekanand calls such persons as "Daridra-Narayanas" meaning Raheem says ;-
'who see God in the poor'. Raheem sab sampati sage, banat bahut bahu reet,
2. "My dear Saints, consider yourself lucky and blessed Vipadi kasouti jo kase, so hi sache meet.
when people insult you, punish you, and criticize you. Only then (Meet=Mitra, friend).
you would find the path of God. All past saints have entered the "When you are rich, people come to you and say I
kingdom of God after suffering at the hands of ignorant people am your friend or such and such a relative, in this way and
and tyrannical kings". The case of Dalai Lama is an example of that way. But your real friends and well wishers are only few
such a saint. Saint Kabir also gives same message in a beautiful who stand by you in the times of your difficulty".
style:-Nindak nihare rakhia, aangan kutir bichaya, In another verses Raheem says:-
Bin sabun bin aapse dhovat nishdin pap. Mitra aisa kijiye, jo dhaal sarika hoy,
"Keep your critics near you. Make a small hut for them in Sukkhame to pichhe rahe, aur Dukhame agai
front of your home. They will wash your sins daily without soap hoy.
and water. "Welcome criticism" is the simple meaning of this Rahim compares true friend with a shield on the
sermon and Kabir's verse (13th century A.D.) Generally We feel back. It remains on the back in ordinary times but comes
insulted when some one criticizes us or our religious beliefs. forewords to receive blows of enemy's sword. Keep only
Jesus about Wealth and Money:- such friends who come to your help in days of difficulty.
3. Talking about money, Jesus says "Money could never True friends usually remain little away from you during times
give you permanent happiness. Never believe that money is of your riches and happy days.
strength or power because when you loose money, the peace of "A friend in need is a friend indeed".
your mind is gone. You become unhappy. You are not able to Compare this sermon also with the following verses
make compromises in life. of The Gita Ch-II-38.
4. "If by chance you are rich and happy at present, don't Sukkhe dukkhe samei krutva labha-alabhau
think that this is a permanent state. If people are praising you jaya-ajayau
now, don't get elated. A day will come when the same people Tato yuddhaya yujjasva naivum papam
will criticize you and hate you. Then you will become unhappy". avapsyasee.
Money is called Dolat (Do=two, lat=kick, meaning two The Lord says:- "He who is equipoise in happiness
kicks) in Hindi. When money comes it gives the first kick from or unhappiness, in gain or loss and in victory or defeat is not
15
a sinner. There is no sin in fighting for your rights and uplifting Mayadhykshana prakrutihi, sooyate sachara-
your self". achalam;
Yo na hrashyati na dweshti na shochati na kankshati Hetuna-anena Kaunteya jagat viprivartate.
Shubhashubha parityagi yo mad bhaktaha sa me The Gita Ch. IX- verse 9.
priyaha. The Lord says: "Oh son of Kunti, Under my
Ch XII-16. The Gita. authority and supervision the laws of mother nature
The Lord says; "One who is not elated, not jealous, not (Prakruti) transcendent in living and non-living things in
anxious, does not expect rewards or help from others (desire equal manner. Physical objects undergo definite and fixed
less) and does not think this is good and that is bad is my changes with the passage of time. This is an ever
devotee. I love him". Now we return to Sermons on mount. changing world. Newer things and people come and older
"Priests must teach morals by their own practices". ones vanish".
Jesus says; Jesus about Non-violence.
5. My dear saints, you are the 'salt' of the land. When Look at the views of Jesus on the issue of 'Non-
the salt looses its taste, it turns into mud. Never loose your violence' (Ahimsa).
taste. If you loose your taste the land would also loose its 7. "You are familiar with an old doctrine "Do not
nobility and spirit. You are like candles that give light in kill". You also know that a killer will go to hell. But now I
darkness. A candle is not placed under a bed. It is placed in a tell you this. If you become angry with your brother you
balcony so that everyone in the town gets its light. You are like have done violence. If you speak bad words for your
the houses of a city on a mountain. Such a city is visible to fellow brothers you have done violence and you will go to
travelers from a distance". hell. If you call someone a fool you will go to hell and
There was a charge against Jesus that he didn't suffer.
respect the scriptures of Hebrew prophets like Moses. In the While making sacrifices if you have hate in your
following sermon Jesus gives a definite answer to this mind for your brothers, I ask you to halt. Go to your
allegation in the style of an Indian Rishi. brother, make compromises and purify your minds first
"Don't think that I am destroying the ancient and then make sacrifices. Don't waste a moment in
scriptures. In fact I am trying to elaborate their eternal making compromises with your opponents".
message and request you to translate it in your daily life. Hebrews performed sacrifices by killing sheep and
6. Saints, always remember that you must excel in chicken and offering them to God. Similar practices in
noble character compared to the Pharisees and the rich India were carried out by Brahmins in times of Lord
Hebrews. The door of the kingdom of God won’t open for Buddha and Mahavira. Jesus asks to purify our minds
you until you prove that you are superior to them by your first, by removal of hatred (Dwesha) towards fellow
deeds and conduct. As long as the Heaven and the Earth brothers and then performing sacrifices.
exists, not a word or letter, not even a straw will escape A great sermon of Jesus regarding
from the laws of God until all that must happen has 'forgiveness' (Kshama).
happened". Matthew 5:18. Jesus says :-"Saints, You have learnt and are
A student should note that in this sermon Jesus affirms advised - eye for eye and tooth for tooth (old preaching).
that the laws of mother nature (Prakruti) work in living beings But what I tell you is this:
and also in non-living things in an equal manner. Compare this Do not set your hand against the man who
statement with the following verse of The Gita: wrongs you. If someone slaps you on your right
cheek turn and offer him your left. If a man wants to
sue you for your shirt let him have your coat as well. If
16
a man in authority makes you go one mile go two miles expectations and rewards, indebtedness and
with him. obligations. This sense of obligations is seen even
You may ask why turn the other cheek? Because among the drug dealers, criminals, sinners and
hate multiplies like a wild fire. Average person loves his tyrants. But I tell you to give where there is no chance
friends and hates his enemies. I tell you to love even your of return". In this sermon we find a very important theme
enemies". Matthew. 5:38 -41. of The Gita known as 'Nish-kam karma-bhava'. Helping
Mahatma Gandhi was highly influenced by this unknown people without expectation of rewards.
particular sermon. He had translated this message in his fight 9. Jesus teaches to give with grace and dignity.
against the Britishers in South Africa and later in his entire life. There should not be any ego while giving donations. He
This scene is nicely shown in the award winning movie teaches to forgive who have offended in the past. Only
'Gandhi'. There are many verses of similar kind in The Gita. then you are eligible for asking for forgiveness of your sins
Samah Shatrau cha mitre cha, tatha before the Lord. Jesus says :- My Lord is perfect,
manaapmanyoho". The Gita:- CH XII-17. merciful and full of all good qualities. In Sanskrit God is
"He who treats friends and enemies in an equal called 'Karuna-sagar' meaning an ocean of mercy and
manner and is equipoise during insults and praises is a true 'Sad-goona Bhandara', having a treasure full of good
devotee of God". qualities. Oh saints, you also try to be perfect, merciful
Nirvairaha sarve bhuteshu yaha, sa mameti and a treasure full of good qualities".
Pandavaha. CH. XI - 55. Jesus on celibacy and sex. (Brahama-charya).
"Only he can reach me and see me who has no 10. The old testaments declare "Thou shalt not
animosity towards any living creature". A true saint doesn't commit adultery". The codes of Moses prescribed heavy
look upon lions and snakes as enemies. punishments for those who committed this sin but they
8. Jesus says "Never be jealous of anybody, never were mostly applied to women. A virgin girl or a widow
hate anyone. Always have good thoughts about others becoming pregnant is looked upon as 'sin' even to day in
even if they give you abuses and curses. You always try any civilized community.
to help those who have made you suffer. This is the path Jesus pleads for women and explains, "But I tell
towards kingdom of God". you that he who casts his eye on a woman so as to
We Hindus must also learn something from Bible and lust after her has already committed adultery within
Christianity regarding an attitude of helping others. True his own heart". We see here that Jesus enters into
Christians display maximum helping spirit during Christmas people's minds and hearts and calls a person sinner if a
days. Jesus, giving examples from mother nature says:- desire or a thought of passion exists in the mind. He does
"The sun doesn't discriminate between a good man not wait for the evil tree to bear the evil fruits.
and a bad man in giving his light. The rain doesn't Jesus advises his disciples, "Saints, in case your
discriminate between a saint's temple and a sinner’s right eye commits a sin of adultery, tear it out and
home in giving its pure water. In the same manner, Oh my fling it away; if your right hand does such a sin, cut it
saints, you also always remain merciful, compassionate away. It is better you loose an organ or a limb before
and behave in an equal manner towards everybody. you loose your character and go to hell".
It is natural that you love those who love you. But to Matthew: 5: 29-30.
become super-humans you have to learn to love those who We find this advice literally translated in the life of
hate you and harass you. a great Indian saint Suradasa who lived in 13th century
Even the uncivilized people possess a sense of A.D. Suradasa pierced both his eyes with hot sharp iron
obligation and try to return them. People live in a world of rods and invited life long blindness, when he was gripped
17
with lust even in case of his own wife. Sex control in married worry for your life and food, you cannot walk on the path
life is very important. The vow of celibacy brings great success of God. Your worries cannot feed your body. Sublime all
in marital relations. your fears and worries and have faith. HE who nourishes
"Never try to read intentions of others. You try to all the animals, birds and plants is sure to look after you.
harbors good and noble thoughts for everybody. A blind Only those people worry who have no faith in HIM. They
man cannot lead another blind man. Too much attachment worry for food, water and clothes. If you remain pure and
to relatives makes a person blind like Dhrutarashtra. honest you shall get everything".
Giving false witness. Jesus about Time.
11. "Scriptures advise you to speak the truth and not to 14. Look at 'time sense' of Jesus and all great
give false testimony. But I advise you never to take oaths in prophets of the world.
the name of God, scriptures, land, temple or even your own "Don't worry today for tomorrow. Tomorrow will
self. In case you have to be a witness, speak less and think take care of itself. Even to take care of one day- today,
well, and then give very short answers by saying yes or no". one needs efforts and consciousness. It is the question of
Jesus about Guru - pupil relations. faith and asking with faith". We find many verses of similar
12. "A disciple cannot be greater than his teacher. At kind in Kabir's verses. In one verse Kabir says we live
the most he can be equal to his teacher. He can never excel only three days, yesterday, to day and tomorrow.
his teacher. As long as there is a grain of sand in your eye, Where is God? Jesus shows us the residence
don't try to clear the sand from other's eyes. First remove your of God.
own faults and then try to improve others. 15. "The door of God is not far. It is near. Knock it
A sweet apple tree bears sweet apples. A sweet apple and it shall open".
cannot grow on a bitter berry tree. In the same way your Hindu Upanishads also declare the same theme in
actions and behavior with others shall speak whether you are this manner.
a sweet apple or a bitter berry tree". "Taddure, tadvantike" Ishavasya Upanishad
Who is a true disciple? Verse No. 5.
"Many times you refer to me as master, Guru and "HE is near and hear, HE is far and there". God is
savior etc. But if you don't behave according to the rules of every where.
Lord preached by me, then you are speaking one thing and Ishavasya Upanishad is the first Upanishad written
doing other. On doom's day, if you say before the Lord, that about 2000.B.C.
you were chanting his name and my name, I will not accept In the end assuring us about the mercy of God
your word. I will say to Lord that I never knew you and Jesus Says:- "Is there any one among you who will
preached you. Keep the foundation of your building sound and give stones to his son when he asks for bread? Then how
firm so that it can withstand heavy storms. If the foundation is come Lord would give you harmful things when you
weak, the house will fall even under mild winds and light rains. demand good and useful things?
Pray to the Lord and ask that you never become a The path leading to kingdom of God and heaven is
victim of sensual joys. You ask Lord, "Give us day by day our narrow. The roads leading to hell are broad and open from
daily bread". You ask for the courage to forgive the sins of all sides. The path to God demands great sacrifices,
criminals. You pray like this. Let thy kingdom of love and (Tapas) efforts (Purusharthas) and awareness (Jagruti).
mercy spread everywhere. Amen". Amen".
Difference between God and Satan. May God Bless you. May God inspire you with love
13. "My dear saints, You cannot serve Satan and God and mercy, forgiveness and helping nature.
at the same time. If you wish to be rich and famous, if you Amen. Hari Om tat sat.
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Ages of Major three Western and Eastern religions. CHRONOLOGY OF HINDU SCRIPTURES.
Age periods of evolution of world religions & thought streams in Hinduism.
OM IS SYMBOL OF KNOWLEDGE & ROOT OF ALL SPOKEN
LANGUAGES.
Rig, Yajur and Sam Veda Develop. Later 7000 BC
Atharva Veda was added. Aur, Dhanur, EARLY HINDUISM OF THE VEDIC ARYANS. SEARCH OF
Gandharva Artha Veda Develop in later ages. In KNOWLEDGE. Vedas were also called SHRUTIES or AUDIO-
OM
final portions of Vedas we see start of Upanishad knowledge. Rig, Yajur and Sam Vedas develop. In early 3
VEDA
Vedas there is worship of Natural Elements like sun, Fire,
Rain, Air, Water, Land etc.. These were refereed to as Devas
MANU SMRUTI AND SAMHITAS
DEVELOP. The 4 CLASS SYSTEM
and Devies. First 3 Vedas took nearly 3 to 4 thousand years to
IN HINDUISM STARTED develop.
H VEDIC PERIOD. 5000 BC.
ERA of I
2500 BC The Aryans were the earliest tribe to develop Vedas. Fire
N 240 UPANISHAD (Agni) and Rain Gods (Indra) were worshipped as Gods. After
of Aryans D DEVELOP-ISHA, KATH
settling in N-W Parts of Indian sub-continent, their King Manu
U AND OTHERS
dictated the doctrines of a four class socio-political system,
I the Varna Dharmas (Dharma= Duties).
Upnishd S SMRUTI PERIOD. 4500. BC.
SANKHYA, NYAYA, YOGA.
ERA M
VAISHASHIK PURVA After the Vedas one observes development of Smruties, which
2000 BC
MIMAMSA & UTTAR MIMANSA dictate the class laws of King Manu called Manu Smruti.
Age of VEDANTA DEVELOP Development of early Upanishads like Ishavasya and
H
Rishies E Kathopanishad.
1000 BC B 3000. BC. Special privileges are given to higher classes of
RAMAYANA BY VALMIKI AND
R GITA & MAHABHARAT BY Brahmins and Kshatriyas.
SIX-Hindu UPANISHAD PERIOD: 2000 BC.
VEDA VYASA who lived during
Darshans E
Develop W Roots of Jainism & (mostly) the 500. BC period. Search of self (soul) and its relationship with the Vedic Gods
Buddhism lie in is studied in the Upanishads. Aryans and original residents of
Upanishads and 6
600 BC India fight. Stories of Devas (deities) and Asuras (demons) are
Hindu Darshans Era of 18 Hindu
500 BC seen in scriptures. They suggest conflicts or wars between more
PURANAS of Brahma
2 to 300 civilized and less civilized people.
Vishnu and Shiva -6 for
BC
each Mystic Deity.
R DARSHAN PERIOD. 1200. BC.
00000 +++++++++++----+++++--+++++++-------
E WONDERFUL SPIRITUAL HINDU SCRIPTURES DEVELOP.
C Islamic Rule in
L H India These include the famous Six Hindu Darshans. By this time in
I R H the Ganges regions, Sun worshipping and moon worshipping royal
G I I dynasties were established. (1). POORVA MIMANSA, by Jaimini, (2)
----------------++
700 AD I J B Four Acharyas, &
S N U Saints & Bhaktas
NYAYA, by Gautama, (3). YOGA BY PATANJALI, (4). SANKHYA
O T D A
D start many secular by Kapil, (5) VAISHASHIK by Kanad, AND
N I U I
1000 AD I D religions, only in (6) VEDANT by Ved Vyasa, DEVELOP.
A I N
1200 AD S H last 8 centuries. (7) Charvak's Darshan denies the theory of rebirths of souls
N S I
L I propagated by selfish ritual minded Brahmins.
I M S
1500 AD A S British Rule Start in 1758.
T M ? VALMIKI RAMAYANA written in this age. Rama was the
M M Ends in 1947 thru
Y leadership of Gandhiji. 58th son in the dynasty of Manu. ? Krishna, in human
1800 AD (He is forgotten by the form after Rama, who perhaps lived in the 12th cent. BC.
politicians & Indian
people)
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600. BC. IMPORTANT DATE (CENTURY) OF WORLD SUMMARY.
RELIGIONS. Hinduism is a non-prophet philosophy of attaining wisdom by
MAHAVIRA AND BUDDHA START TWO GREAT RELIGIONS search of self (Atma). This subject is discussed in great
IN INDIA. BUDDHISM AND JAINISM, LAYING STRESS on details in Upanishads, Darshans, and the Gita. Innumerable
NON-VIOLENCE IN RELIGION. Prophets in Hinduism are seen only in recent centuries. They
have started many secular Guru worshipping cults
(sampradayas). They are also called religions.
500. BC. GITA AND MAHABHARAT. Search of God Starts with SELF, and Ends in SELF by
BY VED VYASA WRITTEN IN THIS PERIOD, MOSTLY AFTER BUDDHA understanding the fixed laws of Mother nature.
AND MAHAVIRA. VEDANTA DARSHANA WRITTEN IN THIS AGE ALSO.
PURANIC PERIOD.- 300. BC. Mythology enters Hinduism.
18 Puranas(Mythology)scriptures develop during 2nd BC. To 3rd AD.
IMAGINARY GODS LIKE SHIVA, VISHNU, AND BRAHAMA ARE
DESCRIBED IN THESE PURANAS. Their mystic stories symbolize
divine love between husbands and wives. .Bhagavatum became a
popular Vishnu PURANA after 15th century A. D. It describes 10 major
incarnations of VISHNU. RAMA & KRISHNA are the 7th & 8th.
0000- + Christ is born. + + + + + + + + + + + + +
He preaches LOVE and forgiveness in the West.
500 AD. Roman Church in West. Arya Bhatta invents Zero in Math.
700 AD. SHANKARACHARYA (preaches Adwaita theory) IN EAST
MOHAMMAD IN WEST.
1000 AD. PERIOD
Era of Islamic invasions in Europe and India start.
1200 AD. Islamic rule in India
For next 600 years.: Ghori, Lodi, and Mogal dynasties rule India.
Era of SAMPRADAYAS OF ACHARYAS. MADHAVA, RAMANUJA,
KABIR, SURDAS preach BHAKTI PATH.(All preach Dwaita
Philosophy)
1492 AD. COLUMBUS DISCOVERS AMERICA AND
VASCODE GAMA A SEA ROUTE TO INDIA.
1500 AD. Rule of King Akbar
Mira & Tulsidas. Vallabhacharya starts Vaishnivism. Chaitanya,
Narsinha Mehta (in Gujarat); Guru Nanak starts Shikh Religion
1757 AD. END OF ISLAMIC EMPIRE AND START OF
BRITISH RULE IN INDIA.
1800 AD. Swami Sahajananda Swaminarayana Religion in Gujarat.
1900 AD. Vivekananda in America. Gandhi leads INDIA to freedom.
1947 AD. India Independent. 40 Years Rule of Nehru Dynasty in
Democratic India. GURUS build palacious temples, only at one place,
Haridwara. They have forgotten their duty of educating the poor people
in villages of India. THE 21st CENTURY NEEDS NEW LIGHT IN THE
RELIGIOUS FIELD.
VIEWS OF MAHATMA GANDHI WILL GIVE IT.
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